Live at Maybeck Recital Hall, Vol. 23

AllMusic Review
by Ken Dryden

The blues piano artistry of Gene Harris is well known to jazz fans, and this rare solo concert CD is worth acquiring. The leisurely "Lu's Blues" is beautifully understated, while "Elephant Blossom Blues" is an uptempo romp in the mold of Oscar Peterson, and "Blues for Rhonda" emphasizes a percussive, boogie woogie-like approach. His approach to standards is also fresh. "Angel Eyes" brings to mind a closing set in an after-hours club, while his jubilant rendition of "Erroll's Theme" shows he has energy to spare. Don't miss this excellent date.